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Searches for information under the GIPA Act

Searching for information under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act) is a part of the process of managing a formal request to access government information. Below is a range of resources that can be used as a guide when undertaking a search for information or deciding if a request will require an unreasonable and substantial diversion of resources.

Section 53 of the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA Act) sets out the obligations of NSW public sector agencies to undertake searches for information requested in an access application.

A valid access application under the GIPA Act requires an applicant to include such information as is reasonably necessary to enable the relevant government information to be identified.

However the GIPA Act also provides discretion for agencies to refuse to deal with an application where dealing with the application would require an unreasonable and substantial diversion of the agency’s resources.

Below is a selection of guidance and resources that may assist you in understanding how to search for information and considering whether a request for access entails an unreasonable and substantial diversion of resources under the GIPA Act.